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Nortriptyline and Creatinine, Urine

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

A urine test that measures nortriptyline relative to creatinine, helping assess drug levels while accounting for urine concentration.

Quick summary

["This test can help determine whether your nortriptyline level is too low, appropriate, or too high."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
61426-3
Short code
Nortrip/Creat Ur
Synonyms
Nortrip/Creat Ur
Category
kidney
Sample
urine
Container
Sterile urine container
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
10 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 2h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
0
Lipemia max
0
Icterus max
0
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What is this test?

This test measures the amount of nortriptyline in your urine along with your urine creatinine level. Creatinine is used to help account for differences in urine concentration.

Why might I need this test?

Nortriptyline is a prescription medicine used to treat certain conditions, including depression. Your clinician may order this test to monitor its level, check adherence, or investigate possible side effects or loss of effectiveness.

How is the test performed?

You provide a urine sample according to your clinician's instructions. A laboratory measures nortriptyline and creatinine and may compare the results to determine a medication-to-creatinine ratio.

How do I prepare for the test?

Follow the collection instructions exactly, including whether a single urine sample or a timed collection is required. Tell your clinician when you last took nortriptyline, because the timing of the sample can affect the results.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

A low result may suggest that little nortriptyline is present in the urine, which can occur with missed doses or differences in how the medicine is metabolized. A high result may indicate excessive exposure and can be associated with medication toxicity. Your clinician will interpret the result using the collection time, dose, symptoms, and other relevant information.

Short name

Urine nortriptyline

Frequently asked questions

Does this test show how much nortriptyline is in my blood?
No. It measures nortriptyline in urine, not blood. Blood tests are different tests and may be ordered if a blood level is needed.
Why is creatinine included?
Urine can vary greatly in how concentrated it is. Measuring creatinine alongside nortriptyline helps account for that variation when the results are compared.
Can this test determine whether I am taking my medication?
It can provide information about drug exposure, but the result alone cannot prove adherence. Your clinician will interpret it alongside your dosing history and symptoms.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy